Richard Allen, who was sentenced to 130 years in prison for the murders of Abby Williams and Libby German near the Monon High Bridge in Delphi, Indiana, is seeing his case back in the spotlight. CBS 4 in Indianapolis reports that Allen’s attorneys have filed an appeal following a recent leak of a 43-second video related to the case. This video, also known as the "Bridge Guy" video, was captured by Libby German and features the voice of a man saying, "Guys, down the hill," which earlier led to Allen's conviction.
It seems the timing of the leak could not have been more polarizing, giving Allen's defense a new knot to aggresively untie in their quest to overturn his conviction. As revealed by CBS 4, online records show that the appeal was filed a day after the video went public. The Allen defense is appealing both the conviction and the sentencing order. The Clark County Clerk's Office clerk now has 30 days to assemble a record of the case, and the court reporter has 45 days to submit the transcript to the court clerk.
Moving forward, Allen's attorneys anticipate a notice of completion from the Carroll County Clerk's Office, maintaining that the trial court retains jurisdiction in the interim. This procedural step is expected to be wrapped up within the next 30 days, as noted by WISH-TV. The legal motion occurs amidst a fraught emotional landscape, with the families of the victims deeply invested in the outcome. The leaked footage, stemming from the fateful day of February 13, 2017, casts a renewed shadow over the harrowing case that has gripped not just a community but the nation.
Libby German's family has also spoken out in the wake of the appeal notice. In the words of Libby's grandfather, Mike Patty, the delay in justice "puts our family through more than they should have to endure," according to WTHR. He asserts that "The girls deserve better," a sentiment undoubtedly shared by many still seeking closure in this tragic saga.
